Far From Mugen

Thursday, February 17, 2011

This is the sports car that every driver has been waiting for – the new BMW M3.

The model has consistently set the performance coupé benchmark, and this latest version will raise the bar further with its more efficient 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six engine. Replacing the much-loved 4.0-litre V8, it will be the first turbo to grace the M3. This will help to improve overall fuel consumption and reduce emissions, even on high-performance BMWs.

Even so, the engine will pack a serious punch, delivering around 450bhp. It is likely to be a development of the unit used by the 1-Series M Coupé, but with approximately another 100bhp, it should be able to push the car from 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

The engine is mated to a choice of six-speed manual or twin-clutch paddleshift gearboxes. The car gets the latest M Sport active diff, too, and will be better to drive than the previous M3, as well as faster, lighter – thanks to composite materials – and more efficient. It will also be a real head-turner. As with the current car, the coupé will get sleek bodywork with unique panels. These will give it a longer, sportier profile, complemented by a more rakish windscreen.

Think of the car as a downsized version of the new 6-Series and you’ll get the idea. The M3 will add a muscular bodykit, low front splitter and air intakes. In addition to the Coupé we have illustrated here, there will be a drop-top Convertible.

However, this time there won’t be an M3 saloon option – the four-door has been relatively unpopular, so BMW is likely to drop it from the range. Expect to see the new M3 in 2012.

Saturday, February 12, 2011

This thing is ridiculous! The car is nearing completion and here is a lengthy pictorial of the fabrication work which has gone into the car. Needless to say, it's very impressive. Given that every suspension pickup has been changed and the car has new subframes, new track, etc, it may be fair to say it's an E30 M3 in body shape only. Outside of the shape, it's truly a custom car and not just a drivetrain swap.

Friday, February 11, 2011

Forged Performance recently picked up a 2011 STi Sedan, and their build is on the way. Anyone who know Forged Performance knows about the cars they've put out. Each year, they've put together one showcase Forged vehicle that usually ends up on the cover of Modified Magazine, and is seen at events all over the country. We are pretty sure this one will result in the same fate.